METHODOLOGICAL CRITIQUE FOR SCREEN SENSE: A CASE FOR PHENOMENOLOGY

Russell J. Cook

Abstract

This philosophy paper addresses the question of why phenomenology is the best research method for investigating visual perception of screen media, or screen sense. Disciplines cannot be justifi ed adequately by assumptions that give rise to them. A scientist’s duty to question founding assumptions is satisfi ed only by stepping outside one’s own tradition to acquire a critical perspective. Th us, integrity in scientific inquiry rests on openness to criticism from perspectives outside one’s own traditions, a consciousness of tolerance. Phenomenology claims for itself a capacity for such critical self-refl ection and openness to multidisciplinary debate1. In summary, methodological validity for the study of screen sense begins with a phenomenologist’s openness to criticism and moves through critique of other perspectives toward an authentic, unified investigation.